Finnish Lapphund
Overview
Finnish Lapphund breeds date back from around 7000 B.C Historically, they are reindeer herders of the Sami people. These people are indigenous Finno-Ugric people residing in Northern parts of Norway. Finnish Lapphund dogs are intelligent and sociable dogs which lead to their nickname as "Thinking breeds."
Characteristics
Finnish Lapphund dogs are big dogs wherein their height measurement upon standing ranges from 17 to 21 inches and can weigh up to 35 pounds. They are distinguishable by their long, soft, and thick hair undercoat that resembles that of a wolf. However, they can be differentiated from wolves through their barking and herding skills. Their undercoat varies in color including white, brown, red, and black, as well as a variety of color combinations mentioned.
As forementioned, Finnish Lapphund dogs are smart and active breeds. They are ideal options as family pets since they are excellent watchdogs. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are quite submissive and friendly with small children. Their obedience and activeness make them ideal for a physically active family.
Temperament
Finnish Lapphund dogs are extremely alert by barking at unfamiliar things. Therefore, proper supervision and training are required to teach these dogs how to behave properly. Since they are very curious dogs, they should be exposed and be taught to things that signal an upcoming danger.
Shedding And Lifespan
These dogs don't require much grooming. They only shed a moderate amount of hair and are very much healthy. Their energy in doing physical activities makes them quite healthy dogs. They can tolerate cold weather due to their thick undercoat but they cannot tolerate hot weather. It is recommended that the house is properly ventilated and equipped with an airconditioning system so they can tolerate the heat during summer.
They have a normal lifespan of 12-14 years but may live longer depending on the lifestyle and activities of the household. However, Finnish Lapphund dogs are commonly known to have medical eye problems specifically Generalized progressive retinal atrophy (GPRA). It is a genetic illness that appears from 1 to 8 years of age.
Training
Finnish Lapphund dogs can be easily trained due to their ease in adapting new skills and tasks. Their high intelligence and curiosity makes them qualified for obedience trials, pet therapy, and herding tasks. They only need proper supervision due to their tendency to bark at strange and unfamiliar things. Despite their unpredictable barking, this behavior can be controlled through training.
Breed Information
| Popularity: | 2018: #173 2017: #173 2016: #173 2015: #169 |
| Origin: | Finland |
| Breed Group: | Herding (AKC:2011) Northern Breeds (UKC) |
| Size: | Medium |
| Type: | Purebred |
| Life span: | 12-15 years |
| Temperament: | Calm Courageous Faithful Friendly Keen |
| Height: | Female: 16–19 inches (41–47 cm) Male: 18–20 inches (46–52 cm) |
| Weight: | 37-42 pounds (17-19 kg) |
| Colors: | Black Blonde Brown Cream Tan Wolf Sable |
| Litter Size: | 2-9 puppies |
| Puppy Price: | Average $600 - $800 USD |
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Dog names
| Rank | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Max | Bella |
| 2 | Bear | Chloe |
| 3 | Teddy | Zoey |
| 4 | Buster | Gracie |
| 5 | Dexter | Zoe |
| 6 | Zeus | Sasha |
| 7 | Harley | Nala |
| 8 | Jackson | Emma |
| 9 | Sammy | Layla |
| 10 | Ollie | Dixie |
| 11 | Luke | Hazel |
| 12 | Rufus | Sydney |
| 13 | Chico | Hannah |
| 14 | Maverick | Sally |
| 15 | Benji | Sassy |